Cricket: Valuable innings by Ealham

Mark Ealham underlined his importance to England A yesterday as the touring team suffered fluctuating fortunes on the second day of their unofficial Test against Sri Lanka A on a deteriorating pitch.

The Kent all-rounder's determined innings of 87 helped his side reach 385 and with Sri Lanka A finishing on 105 for 2, it may prove to be decisive with the dried-out surface becoming more unpredictable.

Ealham and Ben Hollioake added 119 in 38 overs when Hollioake fell after mistiming a cut shot, while Ealham gave a simple catch to the left-arm spinner Tilan Samaraweera. England's final six wickets then fell for 64 runs in 34 overs.

Paul Hutchison's left-arm seam caused the Sri Lankan openers problems and Russell Arnold edged to Hollioake at first slip. James Ormond then removed Sanjeewa Ranatunga, caught by Steve James at short leg.